What are the potentials of horse manure?

SHITTY MATERIAL

Magdalena Ursula Koestler
Ella Sophie Stauber

This project began with a simple act: collecting.

Horse manure, taken directly from the cycle, dried, processed further, sometimes left raw. Through experimenting, testing, and discarding, different mixtures and surfaces emerged.

During the process, one thing became clear: the main component is hay. A material that was already part of a finished product—digested, used, excreted—and now receives a new function. What is considered waste becomes legible again. The material is given time, form, and meaning.

It can be used to fertilize soil, produce wood-like material and for 3D printing - Horse manure has many valuable properties. It also stores energy that can be used for thermal purposes.

With our toolkit, we want to inspire and draw attention to seeing waste materials, such as animal excrement, in a different light and recognizing their potential.

 

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A project made in the course

DIY MATERIAL KITS

Exhibition from 23.1.–31.3.2026 at BITZ unibz fablab Opening times: Tue–Fri from 1-7 pm, Sat 10am-1pm and 2-5pm Address: Via Antonio Rosmini 9, Bolzano Have you ever tried making ceramics out of egg shells? What about giving used coffee grounds a second life? Discover our new edition of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Material Kits and learn how natural and recycled materials can be the starting point of creating something new. We are showcasing over a dozen fun and hands-on activities that (re)connect us with bio-based materials and the culture of making.
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